After seven years with the Kraken organization, former general manager turned president of hockey operations Ron Francis stepped down from his position on Wednesday. The move takes effect at the end of the season.

The Hockey Hall of Fame player turned executive oversaw the hockey department for the club and also served as a strong ambassador and face for the franchise since the expansion process started in 2019. He bumped up from the GM position last spring and was replaced by former Buffalo Sabres GM Jason Botterill.

“Ron and I agreed that this is the right moment to make a thoughtful transition for both Ron and the organization, and move in a new direction,” Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke stated in a press release. “From a small office in Lower Queen Anne to the 32nd NHL franchise, Ron’s leadership and vision were instrumental in building this franchise from the ground up. Under his stewardship, we reached the playoffs in our second season, and he leaves behind a strong foundation of draft picks and promising prospects that will continue to shape the future of the team. We are grateful for his dedication and professionalism, and we wish Ron and his family the very best.”

Leiweke will meet with some of the media on Thursday morning.

“It has been an honor to help launch and lead the Seattle Kraken over the past seven years,” Francis said in a statement. “I am proud of the culture we built, the people we brought together, and the milestones we achieved, including our historic first playoff run. I want to thank our entire ownership group, everyone throughout the organization, and our incredible fans for their unwavering support. This organization has a bright future, and I’m grateful to have been part of its beginning.”

How bright is that future, or at least, how soon will it become brighter, remains the key question around the club.

We spelled out some of the shortcomings of Francis’s management, transactions and development in an article on Sunday. The club has failed to make the playoffs for three consecutive seasons — yes, we’re counting this one — after having everything fall into place in the winter and spring of 2023.

That season’s effort, or run of good fortune, has yet to be duplicated.

This season’s trade deadline strategy was a complete head scratcher to say the least. One can’t assume that the inaction all falls on Francis, although in his position he’s ultimately responsible. Whether is was GM Botterill’s idea, or at the urging of ownership, the inaction of moving veteran players, unrestricted free agents, was a setback.

For now the focus isn’t on blame, it’s on change.

Earlier Kraken:

— Wild Beat Kraken 5-2, Differences Glaring

Earlier Canucks:

— Canucks PR BS; Don’t Blame Ullrich